Congress manifesto promises more flyovers, expansion of Namma Metro

Renewing its previous pitch to make Bengaluru the second capital of the country, the Congress manifesto for Bengaluru Urban promises a special package worth a staggering ₹1,00,000 crore, albeit with help from other sources such as the Centre and “other alternate sources”.

Apart from promising “a city ombudsman office” to act as a regulator of all civic services, and reviving its promise for multiple city corporations to govern Bengaluru by establishing a Greater Bengaluru Authority, the manifesto mentions “more flyovers”, ignoring the steel flyover fiasco that evoked widespread anger among citizens. There is no mention of tackling illegal commercialisation — another issue that large pockets of citizens have protested against, but the manifesto has promised action against commercial establishments “responsible for encroachment of pavements.”

With the frothing and fires in the city’s lakes, such as Belandur and Varthur, hitting international headlines during its tenure, the Congress manifesto has taken note to prioritise lake development and rejuvenation, treatment of untreated water and removal of illegal encroachments on lakebeds.

The Congress’ five-year term also witnessed repeated episodes of flooding in several areas of the city, which explains why flood management and storm-water drain maintenance finds extensive mention in the manifesto.

As for the transport sector, not only does the manifesto promise to expand metro connectivity within the city, but also to extend Namma Metro to adjoining districts. Opening of suburban railway links to destinations up to 100 km from the city centre has also been listed as one of its promises.